Solar Panels Explained – This is what is covered in this blog. Is it easy to measure solar panel efficiency? Yes, we can easily measure the efficiency of solar panels with the help of numeric values. It requires the value of the amount of sunlight & energy produced. Hence, these calculations are not easy for everyone. Thus, most people often think it is difficult to calculate.
How efficient are solar panels?
Most solar panels are between 15% and 20% effective, with some exceptional companies out from this measuring spectrum. Although, high-quality solar panels will easily surpass 22% efficiency. However, the majority of solar panels on the market are less than 20% efficient.
On what factors does the efficiency of the solar panel depend?
There are lots of factors when it comes to the efficiency of solar panels. Let us have a look at some important factors:
- The Intensity of Sunlight: The amount of sunlight differs throughout the day, affecting the effectiveness of a solar panel. Solar panels will provide more electricity in the afternoon, as the sun is at its brightest, so they can absorb more energy from the sun at that moment.
- Temperature: Solar panels are often unable to work properly at higher temperatures. Solar panel heat build-up is a common issue during warm climates. The heat build-up will result in a decrease of 10% to 25% in energy production. Heat can improve the conductivity of photovoltaic cells’ semiconductors, resulting in charge balance and a decreased electrical field.
- Size of Panel: As per the. power rating and total panel area, the efficiency of the solar panel also varies. However, larger panels use larger cells, resulting in increases in the cell surface area, meaning more efficient panels.
- Material of Cell: The efficiency also somehow depends on the structure of cells and material during production. Therefore, either P-type or N-type defines cell quality. It plays a vital role in overall efficiency.
Final words:
To summarise, we can never determine the efficiency ourselves, even with the help of the formula. Hence, we need professionals to help decide as they have more experience in dealing with all available companies. You can feel free to ask queries related to solar panel efficiency.
